General Description:

In this seminar, we will explore the shifting nature of the gendered workplace, government and labour policies, and the feminization of poverty. Although we will focus on the past 120 years in Canada, we will use an intersectional and global approach to understanding relevant topics and historical moments. We will begin by interrogating the concept of “women” as a stable reference point of inquiry and examine the historical gendering of work with attention to race, class, legal status, ability, and sexual orientation. This crucial work is an essential first step in understanding how policies, activism, and academic research can contribute to a more equitable future. Topics covered will include formal and informal working situations, paid and unpaid work, migrant workers and the Temporary Foreign Workers Program, Labour Organization, and more. Students will be encouraged to pursue their interests to further explore in their final project.

 Departmental Learning Outcomes:

• Analyze, evaluate, and apply sociological theories to address contemporary, historical, social, and global issues.
• Analyze and evaluate quantitative and qualitative research in sociology and the social sciences generally.
• Critically reflect on culture, social relations, and social structures to develop a broader and more in-depth understanding of social problems concerning work.
• Communicate effectively, accurately, and professionally in traditional and innovative written and oral forms, including visual and technological.
• Demonstrate personal, professional, and academic integrity and ethical reasoning.
• Demonstrate leadership, teamwork, accountability, personal organization, and time management.